pages: HistoricalAdvisoryBoard/2012-02-02.pdf, 3
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HistoricalAdvisoryBoard | 2012-02-02 | 3 | Margaret Kavanaugh-Lynch, Planning Services Manager, presented the follow up report to the January 5th report. Board member Owens asked if the staff report was the same as last meeting. Margaret Kavanaugh-Lynch replied yes. Chair Owens called for public comment. Mario Mariani, Commercial Realtor at Gallagher and Lindsey Realtors, stated that he is in favor of the project. He explained that today's customers are attracted to outdoor cafes and that is a unique thing. If you go to the cities of Emeryville, Walnut Creek, and Berkeley, most restaurants have outdoor seating. Therefore, it is important for restaurants to survive the economic downturn and if that is what it takes please make that happen. Richard Rutter, Alameda resident, stated that the corner is well executed and it would be a shame to lose it. He recommended that the property owner should save the tiled entry, the top soffit, and the existing door. He also suggested that the owner change the glazing to operable windows on top of the existing bulkhead and to not tear out the existing bulkhead. Furthermore, he believed the building to be a treasure and for the Board to compromise with the property owner by using his recommendations. Mi'Chelle Fredrick, experienced retail and restaurant designer, spoke about the need to promote adaptive reuse projects that function with the evolving times and neighborhood characteristics. She believed that outdoor seating is a desired amenity and she urged the Board to approve the project. Shadi Movafagh, General Manager of Linguini's Restaurant in Alameda, spoke on behalf of the General Manager of Havana and the other employees. She explained that the building must be revitalized in order to compete with other businesses, especially businesses that have patio seating. Kathi Young, Alameda resident, stated she approved the project because it will create more jobs and revenue for the city. She acknowledged the fact that the open space design was necessary so waiters and waitresses can safely serve patrons. Nancy Hird, Alameda resident, stated that outdoor seating is a great idea but the issue lies within the National Park Service guidelines, also known as The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the treatment of historical properties. Therefore, she doesn't want to see the building's character diminished. Draft Meeting Minutes 2/2/2012 Page 3 of 8 Historical Advisory Board | HistoricalAdvisoryBoard/2012-02-02.pdf |